Hi Chas.

I've been wearing the kilt for less than a year and already have six (well five and one coming). I wear a kilt two or three days a week when I'm at home and don't bat an eyelid at those around me anymore. Confidence is the key (even if you're not really confident about it). If you appear to everyone around you that what you are wearing is perfectly normal then they will assume that what you are wearing is err... perfectly normal. Some folks are intrigued, some folks are appauled, most folks couldn't care less.

As for tartans, if you're still getting used to kilting and don't want to lash out big wedge on a wooly 8 yarder just yet, there are affordable Poly-Viscose alternatives all over the internet / ebay. You mention you have an indirect McLeod connection. Have a look at this McLeod of Harris Ancient 8 yard PV. I've got one of these (I have no connection to McLeod but took a leaf out of Hamish's book and I bought it anyway because I like it alot, beautifully subdued.) and it goes great with lovat blue hose and a pint of guinness.

There are lots of kilties in England mate. Get out there and get amongst it, you're not alone! You'll be conscious of every glance when you first venture out but the more you wear it, the more you won't care.

Be careful though, it's VERY addictive. It just starts with kilts. Then there's sporrans... and pins... and hose... and belts... and jackets... and... and you get the picture!